EX Premier League referee shared verdict on Everton vs Crystal Palace Controversy live on Sky Sports as opinion splits

Dermot Gallagher believes James Tarkowski was “lucky” not to concede a penalty after his challenge during Everton’s match against Crystal Palace.

Speaking on Sky Sports News’ Ref Watch (30 September), the former Premier League referee stated that Tarkowski’s jumping tackle on Jean-Philippe Mateta produced enough contact to warrant a penalty.

Despite VAR’s intervention, on-field referee Andy Madley stood firm in his decision to award no foul, as Tarkowski and his Toffees teammates came back from a half-time deficit to win 2-1 at Goodison Park.

Gallagher stated, “I think he’s lucky because he jumps in and eventually gets the ball.”

“I think Tarkowski jumps in – he does get some of the ball, there’s no doubt about that, but I think the fact he jumps in, he gets enough of the man for me.

“It’s going to split a lot of people. I actually thought it was a penalty – I was sat with another referee on Saturday, sat watching the same game, he thought no penalty, so tough call but for me it’s a penalty.”

James Tarkowski and Everton get lucky to seal first victory

If the Toffees had gone into halftime 2-0 down against Palace, with one half of their first-choice centre-back combination sent off, confidence at Goodison would have plummeted.

Jarrad Branthwaite’s long-awaited comeback from injury provided a bright spot before kickoff, but the 22-year-old could have been sent off if Tarkowski’s challenge on Mateta had resulted in a red card.

However, with the Blues captain getting lucky and keeping on, Sean Dyche’s side had a solid foundation to build on in the second half, thanks to Dwight McNeil’s magnificent brace.

The full-time whistle will definitely relieve Dyche’s strain, but Tarkowski will also be relieved that his reckless challenge did not cost the Toffees any more points.

A maiden league win, Branthwaite’s comeback, and Dan Friedkin’s looming takeover all contributed to an ideal week on Merseyside, and Tarkowski was fortunate to play a role in it.